Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti has hailed fit-again midfielder Michael Essien after the Ghanaian inspired Chelsea to a 3-1 victory over rock-bottom West Ham with a headed double.
Essien's goals were his first since for the club since he tore the medial ligament in his left knee while training with Ghana before the African Nations Cup in January.
The midfielder, who has temporarily put his Black Stars career on hold, is now expected to make plans of his return for his country.
His performance and form has delighted his coach who thinks he is like a new player at the club.
"I think he's better than a new signing," said Ancelotti.
"We missed him last season because he's one of the top midfielders in the world. He came back and we're happy he can maintain this level of play.
"He's fit now. We have to pay attention because he's playing well, all the games at the start of the season. He scored here, and that's fantastic.
"He's a fantastic jumper and I hope he maintains this position for as long as possible."
Captain John Terry, who only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, was forced off in the second half with a rib injury but Ancelotti is confident he will be fit for the Champions League clash against MSK Zilina next week.